What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of dhanyavaad (thanks) and dena (to give), literally meaning 'to give thanks'.
Which one should you use?
While धन्यवाद देना is the full verb phrase, people often simply use the noun धन्यवाद in everyday speech. Shukriya is another common way to express thanks, but it carries a different tone than the formal dhanyavaad.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Dhanyavaad dena is a formal way to say 'thank you'. For everyday conversation, the word shukriya is a very common and slightly more informal way to express thanks. Aabhaar is also a formal expression used for more heartfelt gratitude.
How does it change in a sentence?
In many practical situations, instead of using the full verb phrase धन्यवाद देना, people simply use the noun धन्यवाद to say 'thanks'.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /d̪ʱən.jə.ʋɑːd̪ d̪eː.nɑː/. The phrase has 4 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word धन्यवाद is derived from the Sanskrit words for 'blessed' and 'speaking', implying that the speaker is speaking a blessing upon the other person.
- In many close-knit Indian families or friendships, saying धन्यवाद can actually feel too formal or distant, as gratitude is often expressed through actions rather than words.
- While धन्यवाद is formal, shukriya originates from Arabic and is deeply tied to the poetic and cultural influence of Persian and Urdu in North India.
Example conversation
Rahul is thanking Neha for bringing him a book.
- राहुल Rahulनेहा, किताब के लिए धन्यवाद देना चाहता हूँ।Neha, kitab ke liye dhanyavad dena chahta hoon.Neha, I want to thank you for the book.
- नेहा Nehaकोई बात नहीं, राहुल।koi baat nahi, Rahul.It's no problem, Rahul.
- राहुल Rahulयह मेरे बहुत काम आएगी।yeh mere bahut kaam aayegi.This will be very useful for me.
- नेहा Nehaमुझे खुशी है कि आपको यह पसंद आई।mujhe khushi hai ki aapko yeh pasand aayi.I am glad that you liked it.
